You’ve identified a workplace opportunity. How can you use problem-solving skills to address it?

1 Define the problem

The first step is to clearly define the problem you want to solve or the opportunity you want to seize. You need to articulate what is the current situation, what is the desired outcome, and what are the criteria for success. You also need to identify who are the stakeholders, what are their needs and expectations, and how will they be affected by the change. A good way to define the problem is to use the SMART framework: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

2 Analyze the causes

The next step is to analyze the root causes of the problem or the factors that enable the opportunity. You need to understand why the problem exists, how it impacts your team and your organization, and what are the underlying assumptions, beliefs, or behaviors that contribute to it. You also need to explore what are the benefits, risks, and costs of pursuing the opportunity, and what are the external and internal influences that affect it. A good way to analyze the causes is to use the 5 Whys technique: ask why the problem or opportunity exists, and then ask why again for each answer, until you reach the core cause.

4 Evaluate solutions

The fourth step is to evaluate the solutions you have generated and select the best one that meets your criteria. You need to compare the pros and cons of each solution, and assess their feasibility, effectiveness, and impact. You also need to consider the feedback and opinions of your team and other stakeholders, and align your solution with your organizational goals and values. A good way to evaluate solutions is to use the PMI technique: Plus, Minus, and Interesting.

5 Implement solutions

The fifth step is to implement the solution you have selected and monitor its progress and outcomes. You need to plan the actions, resources, and timelines required to execute the solution, and communicate them clearly to your team and other stakeholders. You also need to assign roles and responsibilities, and provide guidance and support to your team members. A good way to implement solutions is to use the PDCA cycle: Plan, Do, Check, and Act.

6 Review results

The sixth and final step is to review the results of your solution and evaluate its effectiveness and impact. You need to measure the outcomes against your criteria, and collect data and feedback from your team and other stakeholders. You also need to identify the lessons learned, the best practices, and the areas for improvement. A good way to review results is to use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, and Result.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?